Self-Care September Day 18: Hydrate Thyself

Today we're focusing on another tried-and-true self-care suggestion, because the benefits of drinking water are well-known and well-documented. 

Did you know? 
Your body as a whole is comprised of approximately 60% water. The functions that depend on these bodily fluids include digestion, absorption, circulation, creation of saliva, transportation of nutrients, and maintenance of body temperature. Additionally, your muscles alone are made up of around 80% water, and even a slight dip in their hydration can impair their physical performance. 

Water really is that important. 

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When you drink water, you can:

• help prevent disease
• improve your mood
• bolster your memory 
• prevent headaches and migraines
• relieve constipation
• boost your brainpower - "Counseling clients about their health and wellbeing should include conveying the importance of water for normal body functioning, as well as its effects on physical and cognitive performance."

Because your body loses water through breathing, sweating, and digestion, it's important to rehydrate by consistently drinking plenty of fluids and eating water-dense foods - even mild dehydration can lead to headaches and mess with your brain's ability to function the right way.

In short, staying hydrated is one of the best things you can do for your overall levels of health and wellness.

Self-Care September Day 18: Hydrate Thyself

Here are a few tips to make water consumption easier to habituate, originally shared in my blog post Hydration Station:

• Claim a favorite water bottle or cup as your faithful companion (I love my Yeti cup because it keeps my cold drinks cold and my hot drinks hot for an impressive amount of time)
• Aim to fill your chosen vessel back up as soon as you drink the last drop
• Keep a separate water cup/bottle at work, in your car, in your gym bag...anywhere you regularly spend time (just be sure to wash them all regularly!)
• Bring water to bed and guzzle it down before your pretty little feet even hit the floor in the morning
• Add fruit: lemons, strawberries, oranges, and limes are a few options to consider for a little extra zing
• Increase your consumption of water-dense foods - read “10 Foods to Help You Stay Hydrated” to get started  
• Say yes! Anytime anyone offers you a drink of water, accept the offer and bottoms up!
• Similarly, train yourself to take a sip any time you hear the words "water" or "drink" in casual conversation or on the television
• Keep in mind that there’s an app for that. Try free versions of Plant Nanny, WaterMinder, or My Water Balance for customizable reminders to drink up
• DIY: set an hourly alarm on your phone to build a habit of sipping throughout the day

Cheers to you!

I love you and will see you soon!
xo,
Coach Alex